LONDON : His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik and British Prime Minister Andy Burnham discussed expanding bilateral cooperation and efforts to address regional tensions during talks at Downing Street on Wednesday.

The two leaders reviewed relations between Oman and the United Kingdom and ways to strengthen their partnership in support of shared interests.

Welcoming His Majesty to their first face-to-face meeting, Burnham highlighted opportunities for closer cooperation in technology, defence, security and culture, alongside stronger commercial links.

“On trade, the volume of exchange between us stands at around £1.7 billion, and I am certain we agree that there is scope to strengthen and grow that figure,” he said.

Burnham said he hoped expanding trade would be among the outcomes of His Majesty’s state visit.

His Majesty said the visit reflected a shared commitment to advancing the relationship and expressed confidence in its future.

“My presence here today comes as part of continuing to strengthen these relations. Together, we have embarked on a journey of long-term cooperation, and I am confident that we will achieve great successes together in the years ahead,” His Majesty said.

Regional developments also featured prominently in the discussions, with Burnham praising Oman’s efforts to find solutions, build partnerships and work towards reopening the Strait of Hormuz to trade.

“Everyone sees the considerable efforts that you, Your Majesty, your government and the Omani people are making to find solutions and build partnerships,” he said.

Burnham reaffirmed Britain’s appreciation for Oman’s work under exceptionally difficult circumstances.

“You can rely on our continued support and cooperation,” he said.

His Majesty acknowledged the challenging regional situation, saying such difficulties had persisted for approximately two years.

“Oman has played an important role in everything we have been able to achieve, and in everything we can accomplish in the future,” His Majesty said.

“We always hope that things will return to normal, and we are working towards that.”

Burnham also praised the speeches delivered by His Majesty and King Charles III at the previous evening’s state banquet at Windsor Castle, saying they underscored the depth of the countries’ historical ties.

Britain was among Oman’s oldest friends, he said, describing centuries of cooperation as an established tradition underpinning the modern relationship.

His Majesty thanked Burnham for the welcome and said he was pleased to return to Downing Street during the visit.

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